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Controlling respiratory syncytial virus: real life data from Luxembourg

Early data from Luxembourg's national immunisation campaign against severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in 2023 showed a decline in hospitalisations, especially among infants under six months old. The authors attributed this to the administration of a monoclonal antibody, nirsevimab, shortly after birth. Additionally, the mean age...

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 29, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Innovative COVID-19 analysis supports prevention protocols in health care settings

Researchers analyzed electronic health records and contact tracing data to evaluate the effectiveness of prevention measures implemented during the pandemic. Universal masking was found to be a crucial factor in preventing SARS-CoV-2 transmissions in healthcare settings, with airborne negative pressure rooms and N95 respirator masks no...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateJan 16, 2024

People deprived of liberty are at very high risk of tuberculosis, even years after release

A study in Paraguay found that people deprived of liberty are at a high risk of tuberculosis (TB) during and after incarceration. The risk persists for years after release, with the incidence of TB declining but remaining 10 times higher than in the community.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Americas·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 15, 2024
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Unveiling recurrent foot-and-mouth disease in the Middle East

A comprehensive study reveals repeated incursions of Foot-and-Mouth Disease virus in Israel and neighboring areas, emphasizing the importance of improved surveillance, vaccination efforts, and cross-border cooperation. The research underscores the necessity for unified strategies to effectively combat FMD and reduce its economic and ag...

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalVirology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 10, 2024

“Not everyone has the same number of friends” – Overhaul epidemic modelling to include social networks, says new research

A new study from the University of Birmingham suggests that epidemic modeling can significantly overestimate infection numbers due to ignoring network structures. The researchers found that heterogeneous networks can lead to smaller epidemic waves and fewer infections, contradicting standard 'random mixing' models.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJournal of Physics Complexity·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 9, 2024

Some mosquitoes like it hot

New research found significant differences in heat tolerance among mosquito populations, with some more resilient to heat waves than others. Climate factors such as precipitation and humidity play a crucial role in determining their thermal limits, which may impact disease transmission.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2024

Researchers report detailed analysis of heart injury caused by yellow fever virus

A recent study published in EBioMedicine found that yellow fever virus causes myocardial fibrosis, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, and vascular endothelium alterations, leading to cardiac conduction system disruption. The research provides new insights into the pathogenesis of YF-associated heart injury.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEBioMedicine·DateDec 19, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Milestones in Europe: First results in using new tools to tackle respiratory syncytial virus

The European Union has approved vaccines for pregnant women and monoclonal antibodies to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) among young children. New sequencing tools have also been developed to track the genetic diversity of RSV and inform vaccine effectiveness and treatment strategies.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 8, 2023

Engaging heterosexual men more effectively could slash HIV infections in Uganda

A new study published in Nature Microbiology suggests that providing easy access to HIV treatment and care for heterosexual men could rapidly cut transmission to their female partners. Closing the viral suppression gap in men is estimated to halve rates of new infections among women and eliminate gender disparities.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Microbiology·DateDec 8, 2023

New study finds that male pathology drives avian epidemic dynamics

A new study by University of Arkansas researchers suggests that male-biased pathology makes male canaries more likely to transmit the avian bacterial pathogen Mycoplasma gallisepticum. The study found that male birds have shorter incubation periods, longer recovery periods, and higher pathogen loads than females.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2023

EU/EEA: HIV diagnoses rise for the first time in a decade

New HIV diagnoses rose by 31% in the EU/EEA in 2022, with migrants accounting for 49% of cases. Ukrainian refugees made up a significant proportion of new diagnoses, with women disproportionately affected. The increase highlights the need for tailored early testing and treatment approaches to address this growing public health threat.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 30, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Findings challenge standard understanding of COVID-19 infection

Researchers at UC Riverside found that SARS-CoV-2 entry varies among different species and tissue types, highlighting the need for thorough investigations into viral entry mechanisms. The study's findings suggest that targeting TMPRSS2 may not be effective in preventing COVID-19 infection in mink.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

Another step toward the HIV-1 vaccine: Dynamics of neutralizing antibodies

A study of over 2,300 patients found that HIV-1 neutralizing antibody response decreases over time but highly potent broadly neutralizing antibodies remain detectable. This finding suggests a possible permanent vaccine response and is an important step toward developing an effective HIV-1 vaccine.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 14, 2023
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Geese ‘keep calm and carry on’ after deaths in the flock

Researchers observed Canada goose flocks before and after a population-management cull, finding that the birds strengthened existing relationships rather than forming new connections. This social conservatism helps reduce the potential for increased disease transmission.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 14, 2023

A closer look at rebel T cells

Scientists at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology have uncovered a group of T cells known as mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells. These cells can recognize the same markers whether they come from humans or mice, opening up new possibilities for treating infectious diseases and improving cancer immunotherapies. The study also ...

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2023
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers develop metal-enhanced fluorescence probes for influenza a virus detection

Researchers at Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology developed metal-enhanced fluorescence probes for rapid and accurate detection of influenza viruses. The probes showed high sensitivity and specificity, detecting the virus even at low concentrations, with a remarkable accuracy of over 99%.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 7, 2023
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

How cruise ships can steer clear of viral spread

Researchers found that higher ventilation rates do not necessarily prevent the spread of airborne diseases in cruise ship cabins. The ideal ventilation strategy involves medium flow rates during occupancy and increased airflow after evacuation to minimize droplet spreading.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateOct 31, 2023

Even treated wood prevents bacterial transmission by hand

Researchers found that smooth surfaces like tile and lacquer-coated wood have low bacterial growth, while porous surfaces like untreated oak increase the risk of contamination. Treated wood is recommended as surface material to prevent bacterial transmission via dry hands.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalEnvironmental Advances·DateOct 26, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

How to slow the spread of deadly ‘superbugs’

A new Australian study suggests harnessing genomic surveillance technology can detect the rise of deadly 'superbugs', slowing their evolution and spread to improve global health outcomes. The study highlights the need for a multifaceted 'One Health' approach to surveillance, with practical recommendations for implementation.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalNature Reviews Genetics·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 23, 2023
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

New care model delivers hepatitis C treatment to most vulnerable

A new neighborhood-based care model has been shown to be effective in treating hepatitis C among injection drug users and those experiencing homelessness. The study found that 92% of participants had undetectable levels of the virus after treatment, with 84% achieving sustained virologic response.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 20, 2023

New study provides ‘genetic fingerprint’ indicating disease spread by sand flies may be gaining firm foothold in the United States

A new study reveals a distinct genetic fingerprint of Leishmania mexicana in non-traveler patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis, suggesting locally acquired cases are on the rise. The CDC warns that domestic sand flies may acquire a deadly form of visceral leishmaniasis via imported dogs.

SourceAmerican Society of Tropical Medicine & Hygiene·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateOct 19, 2023

Racing to defuse a ‘ticking’ public health time bomb

The US is experiencing an explosive rise in tick-borne diseases, with over 490,000 annual cases fueled by increased white-tailed deer populations and forest regrowth. New vaccines targeting human hosts and animals are being developed to combat this growing health threat.

SourceYale University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 18, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Germicidal UV lights could be producing indoor air pollutants, study finds

New research from MIT found that germicidal UV lights can produce potentially harmful compounds in indoor spaces. The study suggests that the lights should be used with appropriate ventilation to minimize health risks. Researchers emphasize that the new UV lights are not a replacement for ventilation but rather a complement to it.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 18, 2023

Endemic malaria found in high, dry northwestern Kenya

A new study by Duke University researchers has found endemic malaria in Turkana County, Kenya, with a significant incidence of Plasmodium vivax, a parasite historically rare in sub-Saharan Africa. The presence of invasive mosquito species Anopheles stephensi also poses challenges to the continent's malaria control efforts.

SourceDuke University·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateOct 12, 2023

Novel procedure reduces the risk of mitochondrial disease transmission

A novel procedure using a refined technique and narrower tube has reduced the risk of transmitting mitochondrial disease during assisted reproduction. The study found that the new protocol resulted in normal development of embryos and healthy offspring, with minimal transfer of maternal mitochondria to the offspring.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2023

Pharmacists can improve access to life-saving vaccines

Researchers found that using electronic prompts during appointment scheduling for seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines can identify willing participants for HPV and shingles vaccines. Only 30% of those booking for these vaccines were already vaccinated against HPV, presenting a significant opportunity for targeted campaigns.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalCanadian Pharmacists Journal / Revue des Pharmaciens du Canada·DateOct 2, 2023
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Study shows how ‘superbacteria’ were prevented from spreading in a large tertiary hospital

A recent study conducted at the University of São Paulo's Medical School found that isolating patients with carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) in emergency departments (ER) for over two days can significantly reduce CRE transmission. The researchers also discovered that the ER structure, including bed layout and hand hygiene...

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateOct 2, 2023

Contagious cancers in cockles sequenced, showing unexpected instability

Researchers have sequenced the genomes of transmissible shellfish cancers, revealing high levels of genomic instability not seen in other cancers. The study focused on the common cockle, a species that belongs to one of the oldest groups of animals on Earth.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 2023

Self-sampling proves effective in diagnosing asymptomatic mpox

A pilot study in Catalonia found that self-sampling is a feasible and acceptable method for diagnosing asymptomatic mpox. The study identified 7 positive cases, including 3 asymptomatic individuals, and estimated the prevalence of infection at 6.19%.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateOct 2, 2023

Genes fuelling antibiotic resistance in Yemen cholera outbreak uncovered

Researchers have discovered a new plasmid in epidemic Vibrio cholerae samples that introduces genes encoding resistance to multiple antibiotics. The finding underscores the importance of genomic surveillance and suggests that the strain's stability poses a concerning factor for future outbreaks.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2023

Elk hoof disease likely causes systemic changes

A study by Washington State University researchers found epigenetic alterations associated with elk treponeme-associated hoof disease, suggesting a systemic impact. The findings also suggest that the disease may be heritable, raising concerns about its transmission and susceptibility.

SourceWashington State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 28, 2023
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

The surprising origin of a deadly hospital infection

A new study found that most C. diff infections are caused by characteristics associated with the patient themselves, not hospital transmission. Researchers analyzed fecal samples from over 1,100 ICU patients and discovered only six genomically supported transmissions during a nine-month period.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Medicine·DateSep 18, 2023

Syphilis transmission networks and antimicrobial resistance in England uncovered using genomics

Researchers use genomic surveillance to identify distinct sexual networks for syphilis transmission in England, highlighting the presence of drug resistance. The study reveals information beyond standard epidemiological surveillance data, aiding public health strategies to break transmission chains.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·TypeObservational study·DateSep 15, 2023

Pitt surveillance system detected infection linked to eye drops months before outbreak declared

A Pittsburgh-based surveillance system detected a drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection linked to artificial tears months before the national public health alert. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of whole genome sequencing-based surveillance in detecting outbreaks and preventing nationwide cases.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateSep 13, 2023
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Mason researchers studying zoonotic transmission pathways

Researchers are investigating unknown transmission pathways between humans and wildlife, particularly with white-tailed deer, to predict the risk of spillover. The project aims to integrate these pathways into a modeling framework to mitigate zoonotic disease spread.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateSep 5, 2023

New study shows effectiveness of mpox vaccine

A new international study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases found that vaccinated individuals had fewer lesions, mucosal disease, and needed less pain medication. Reinfected patients also showed milder symptoms, faster recovery, and lower rates of hospitalization.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateSep 5, 2023
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

How to inactivate common cold viruses

RSV virus remains infectious on surfaces for up to seven days, emphasizing the need for regular disinfection. Effective hand sanitizers with at least 30% alcohol content can inactivate the virus.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Hospital Infection·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 2023

New approach to fighting malaria

Scientists have identified specific long noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression and life cycle progression of the deadly Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasite. The discovery could lead to new therapeutic strategies against malaria.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2023

COVID-19 virus is evolving rapidly in white-tailed deer

Researchers found that white-tailed deer are virus reservoirs, promoting ongoing mutation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. At least 30 infections were introduced by humans, and an estimated 23.5% of deer had been infected at one time or another.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 28, 2023

Assessment of hospital-onset SARS-CoV-2 infection rates and testing practices

This study found a correlation between hospital-onset SARS-CoV-2 infections and community-onset infections, highlighting the importance of ongoing surveillance and prevention measures. The findings suggest that hospitals should be particularly vigilant when community incidence rates are high, in order to reduce in-hospital transmission.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 28, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Remoteness didn’t protect Amazonian Tsimané from COVID-19

A new study found that voluntary collective isolation alone was ineffective in preventing the spread of COVID-19 among the Amazonian Tsimané. The researchers used a computer model and serological testing to confirm their predictions, showing nearly identical infection rates across communities.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 24, 2023